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Have you ever craved that cool, crisp, garlicky cucumber salad from Din Tai Fung? This Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad Recipe will transport you straight to their table—without leaving your kitchen! Bursting with flavor, it’s the perfect side dish to make any meal shine. Keep reading to discover how to create this cucumber salad Din Tai Fung recipe at home. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on its addictive crunch and zingy dressing!
What Makes Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad Recipe Special?
- The Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad Recipe stands out with its irresistible balance of tanginess, subtle sweetness, and garlicky punch. The crisp cucumbers absorb the savory dressing perfectly, creating a refreshing yet flavorful bite. This simple yet bold dish offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a light but satisfying side.
- The cucumber salad Din Tai Fung recipe is a fan favorite. Its light, refreshing nature makes it the perfect appetizer or side dish to balance out heavier, more decadent main courses. The crisp cucumbers, tangy dressing, and subtle sweetness offer a palate-cleansing contrast to the bold flavors of Din Tai Fung’s signature dumplings and noodles, making it a beloved starter that prepares you for the meal ahead without overwhelming your taste buds.
Nutrition and Benefits of Din Tai Fung Cucumber salad recipe
Cucumbers are a low-calorie, hydrating vegetable, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a light, refreshing snack or side dish. Their high water content helps keep you hydrated while providing a satisfying crunch without adding unnecessary calories.
The Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad Recipe dressing offers additional health benefits. Sesame oil is rich in heart-healthy fats, while garlic is packed with antioxidants that support immune health. These ingredients create a flavorful yet nutritious dressing that enhances the overall dish.
In terms of nutrition, a serving of this cucumber salad typically contains about 30-40 calories, making it a guilt-free and nourishing addition to any meal.
Ingredients for Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad Recipe
Ingredient | Measurement | Description |
---|---|---|
English Cucumbers | 2 | Provides a crisp, refreshing base for the salad. |
Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Adds a savory, aromatic kick to the dressing. |
Low-sodium Soy Sauce | 2 Tbsp. | Brings a salty, umami flavor to balance the dish. |
Rice Vinegar | 1 Tbsp. | Adds a tangy brightness to the dressing. |
Sugar or Agave Syrup | 1 tsp | Balances the acidity with a touch of sweetness. |
Toasted Sesame Oil | 1 tsp | Infuses the salad with a warm, nutty aroma. |
Chili Oil (adjust to taste) | 2 tsp | Provides a spicy heat; adjust for preferred spice level. |
Garnish | Measurement | Description |
Toasted Sesame Seeds | To taste | Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. |
Chopped Fresh Chili | To taste | Enhances the heat and adds a vibrant color. |
The Simple Beauty of a Cucumber Salad Din Tai Fung Recipe
This Din Tai Fung cucumber salad is beautiful and easy to make. The ingredients are simple and easy to find but combine to make a fresh, tasty dish. There’s no need for long lists of hard-to-find ingredients or complicated cooking steps. All you need are a few basics:
- Cucumbers give the salad a nice, crunchy base.
- Garlic adds a savory kick, and soy sauce and rice vinegar bring the perfect mix of salty and tangy flavors.
- A little bit of sugar or agave syrup helps balance the flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- Toasted sesame oil adds a nutty, warm flavor, making the salad even better.
- Chili oil gives the salad a little heat, which you can adjust based on how spicy you like.
With simple garnishes like toasted sesame seeds and chopped fresh chilli, you get a salad that’s delicious but also pretty and colourful. It’s proof that some of the best dishes come from the simplest ingredients!
How to Make Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad Recipe?
This Din Tai Fung-inspired cucumber salad is incredibly quick and easy. It requires just five minutes of prep time to create a fresh and flavorful Chinese salad.
Prepare the Cucumbers
- Start by thoroughly washing the cucumbers. English cucumbers are ideal due to their thin skin and minimal seeds. Still, other varieties can work if you peel and deseed them first.
- Trim off the ends of the cucumbers, then lay them flat on a cutting board. Use a rolling pin or the flat side of a knife to lightly smash the cucumbers. This technique helps them soak up the dressing better.
- Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a colander, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt, and mix well. Let the cucumbers sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb excess moisture, ensuring a perfect crunch.
- Once rested, rinse the cucumbers under cold water to remove any excess salt, then pat them dry with paper towels.
Make the Dressing
- Mix the minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and chili oil in a small bowl. Whisk until the sugar dissolves completely and the ingredients are well combined.
Combine and Serve
- Transfer the dried cucumbers to a mixing bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over them and toss gently to coat all the pieces evenly.
- Allow the salad to marinate for at least 10 minutes, tossing occasionally to recoat the cucumbers in the flavorful dressing.
- Just before serving, sprinkle the salad with toasted white sesame seeds and give it a final toss.
Adjusting the Seasoning to Suit Personal Taste
- The beauty of the cucumber salad Din Tai Fung recipe lies in its versatility. Increase the chili oil for a bolder kick. Prefer a sweeter note? Add extra agave syrup. Balance the flavors by tweaking the soy sauce or rice vinegar amounts, ensuring the seasoning complements your palate while keeping the dish harmonious.
Substitutions for Dietary Preferences or Ingredient Availability
- The cucumber salad Din Tai Fung recipe is easily adaptable. For a gluten-free option, replace soy sauce with tamari. For allergy-friendly adjustments, use olive oil instead of sesame oil. Agave syrup seamlessly substitutes for honey. Experiment with available chili sauces to maintain the signature spice while honoring individual dietary needs.
Adding a Twist to the Classic Cucumber Salad Din Tai Fung Recipe
- The cucumber salad Din Tai Fung recipe is versatile and can quickly be elevated with creative twists. Add extra crunch and color by incorporating thinly sliced carrots or radishes, bringing a fresh dimension to the dish. Experiment with different kinds of vinegar, like balsamic or apple cider, for a unique flavor profile, or brighten it up with a splash of citrus—lime or lemon works beautifully. For spice lovers, turn up the heat by adding more chili oil or a dash of red pepper flakes. This creates a fiery version that packs a punch while maintaining the salad’s refreshing qualities.
What to Serve with Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad
or fluffy steamed rice for a balanced meal. For a creative twist, serve it alongside crusty bread topped with Vegan Garlic Bread Seasoning to add an extra layer of flavor. It also shines as part of an appetizer platter with grilled vegetables or tofu.
- The Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad is a fantastic side to complement dumplings, noodles, or rice dishes. Its light and refreshing qualities balance the richness of these main courses, creating a well-rounded meal.
- Serve it alongside with crusty Vegan Garlic Bread to add an extra layer of flavor.
- For parties or gatherings, serve the salad as an appetizer platter. Its bright, zesty flavor and crunchy texture will be a hit with your guests!
Easy Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad Recipe (Ready 5 minutes)
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Try this easy and refreshing Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad Recipe for a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors. A crunchy, light side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal!
Ingredients
For Salad:
- 2 English Cucumbers: Crisp and fresh, perfect for salads.
- 2 Cloves of Garlic (minced): Adds a robust and aromatic flavor.
- 2 Tablespoons of Low-Sodium Soy Sauce or Tamari: Provides a savory, umami base.
- 1 Tablespoon of Rice Vinegar: Brings a tangy, slightly sweet acidity.
- 1 Teaspoon of Sugar or Agave Syrup: Balances the savory and tangy flavors with sweetness.
- 1 Teaspoon of Toasted Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty, aromatic depth.
- 2 tablespoons of Chili Oil (adjust to taste): This gives a spicy kick and is customizable to your heat preference.
For Garnish:
- Toasted Sesame Seeds: A crunchy, nutty finishing touch.
- Chopped Fresh Chili: For extra spice and vibrant color.
Instructions
Prep the Cucumbers:
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Use English cucumbers for their thin skin and few seeds, or peel and deseed other varieties.
- Trim the ends, then gently smash the cucumbers with a rolling pin or knife. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Place in a colander, sprinkle with 1 tsp salt and sit for 10–15 minutes to remove excess water. Rinse and pat dry.
Make the Dressing:
- In a bowl, whisk together minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and chili oil until thoroughly combined.
Combine and Serve:
- Toss the cucumbers in a mixing bowl with the dressing. Let sit for 10 minutes to marinate, tossing occasionally.
Garnish:
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Notes
To keep cucumbers crisp in your cucumber salad Din Tai Fung recipe, always salt them first to draw out excess water. Let them rest for 10–15 minutes, then rinse and pat dry. Smashing the cucumbers enhances their surface area, allowing the marinade to penetrate deeply while preserving their delightful crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Tossing/no+-bake
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: per serving
- Calories: 80 calories
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cucumber salad din tai fung recipe
Expert Tips for Success
- Cucumber Preparation: To achieve the perfect texture like Din Tai Fung, gently smash the cucumbers before cutting them. This method helps them absorb the dressing more effectively, enhancing flavor and crunch.
- Dressing Balance: The dressing’s success lies in balancing the acidity, sweetness, saltiness, and heat. Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, especially if you prefer sweeter or tangy.
- Marinating Time: Let the cucumbers sit in the dressing for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to fully develop and soak in.
- Serving: The salad is best enjoyed fresh. If preparing in advance, store the dressing separately and toss with the cucumbers right before serving to keep them crisp.
FAQs About Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad Recipe
Should you peel cucumbers for this salad?
For the cucumber salad din tai Fung recipe, leave the skin on.
Can you make it ahead of time, and how long does it last?
Yes, prepare in advance; refrigerate for 1-2 days.
What variations work best for dietary restrictions?
For the Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad Recipe, try gluten-free soy sauce or sesame-free oil.
Can I use a different kind of cucumber?
Yes, any cucumber works for This Cucumber Salad Recipe.
Conclusion
The Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad Recipe is a refreshing dish that combines the perfect balance of flavors. Its easy preparation and delightful crunch make it a standout addition to any meal. Try making it at home and experience the magic for yourself! Don’t forget to share your results with us, and explore other Din Tai Fung-inspired recipes for more delicious ideas.